Tuscan Elegance With a Florida Flair

A bit of Italy on Florida's west coast

The classically styled residence looks like it was transported from Tuscany to Tierra Verde on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

When most people think of Florida homes, a Tuscan farmhouse on the Gulf of Mexico isn’t the first image that springs to mind, making this property all the more impressive. Located in an exclusive area of Tierra Verde island on the Pinellas County side of Tampa Bay, the massive 12,000 square-foot, three-level residence has seven bedrooms, plus eight full and three half baths. Inspired by the simple elegance of Tuscan farmhouses, the owners traveled to Italy to research and then create their vision.

The living room, accented with exposed Douglas fir beams, tile floors, and large windows to bring the outside in, is an ideal place for family and guests to relax and enjoy each other’s company. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

Set on a waterfront lot just under a full acre in size to ensure privacy, the owners and guests enjoy an unobstructed view of barrier islands and the Gulf of Mexico. The residence has excellent curb appeal, with its landscaped driveway and massive exterior walls crafted of limestone shipped from Italy that perfectly accent the terracotta tile roof.

The oversized saltwater lap pool is heated by a geothermal system for year-round use. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

Inside, the home features soaring ceilings, solid mahogany doors, exposed Douglas fir beam ceilings, wood and Italian tile flooring, and a limestone staircase built with stone from the Burgundy region of France. The main level’s open floor plan connects a living room to a casual dining area in the restaurant-grade kitchen, an adjacent living room, a formal dining room, two rooms used as offices, and a luxurious master suite. The residence also features a wine cellar, a very well-equipped gym, several storage rooms, and a three-car garage. The six guest bedrooms and baths all feature large windows accented with villa-style solid-wood window treatments. The oversized master suite is a restful sanctuary with a large lounging area, a balcony to enjoy the scenery, and a resort-style bathroom with a tiled walk-in shower and a separate large jetted bathtub.

The expansive and airy master suite is a tranquil retreat, with exposed beam ceiling, wood flooring, a lounging area, and a clear view of the beautiful surroundings. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

An al fresco dining area looks out over the water and the saltwater lap pool heated by an energy-efficient geothermal system. A walkway leads past a circular moat surrounding a fire pit through mangroves to the boat dock, which is a great place to launch kayaks to explore the nearby barrier islands.

The entry foyer branches out to three levels of airy and comfortable living spaces that all exude an authentic Tuscan style. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

1571 Oceanview Drive Tierra Verde, Florida $13,995,000

7 bedrooms, 8 baths 12,000 square feet 0.97 acres

- No fixed-bridges Gulf access - Exclusive neighborhood - Heated saltwater pool

Agents

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s St. Petersburg Robyn Gunn, global real estate adviser [phone]

The casual dining area in the well-equipped kitchen adjacent to the living room is ideal for family meals. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

The formal dining area has an upscale farmhouse atmosphere, and is well-suited to entertain large groups, with easy access to the adjacent kitchen. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

The master bathroom combines the simple elegance of a Tuscan farmhouse with spa-quality furnishings. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

The home’s very large gym is equipped with an impressive array of exercise equipment to allow a comprehensive workout, while enjoying a view off the estate’s landscaped grounds. (Courtesy of Sica Media)

The view from the bedroom balcony, framed by manicured landscaping, takes in the boat dock, the nearby barrier islands, with the Gulf of Mexico beyond. (Courtesy of Sica Media)